10 Best Ios Audio Interface 2025 in the United States

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to achieve high-quality audio recordings. One of its standout strengths is the studio-quality sound it delivers, thanks to its high-performance mic pre-amps and converters that allow recordings up to 24-bit/192kHz. This clarity is particularly beneficial for capturing instruments and vocals without distortion, making it ideal for guitarists and vocalists alike.

In terms of connectivity, the Scarlett Solo offers two high-headroom instrument inputs, which means you can plug in both a guitar and a microphone simultaneously. The USB-C connection ensures compatibility across various devices, including Mac, Windows, and iOS systems, enhancing its versatility for users.

Portability is another strong point of the Scarlett Solo, as its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport, which is great for recording on the go. Additionally, the Easy Start online tool provides new users with an accessible way to get set up quickly, making it user-friendly for those who may not be as tech-savvy.

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is an excellent choice for musicians and audio professionals looking for high-quality sound and versatility in recording. One of its standout strengths is the eight microphone preamps, which deliver clear and transparent audio thanks to the 'Air' feature, making it great for vocal and instrument recordings. The 24-bit/192 kHz conversion ensures studio-quality playback, which many users appreciate for both music production and engineering work. Additionally, low latency with class-leading drivers means you'll experience minimal delay while recording, enhancing the workflow.

The unit boasts a total of 18 channels, allowing for multiple inputs and outputs, perfect for larger projects or ensemble recordings. Its dual headphone and speaker outputs with independent controls are beneficial for collaborative sessions, as they let different users adjust their listening levels without affecting others. Moreover, the ability to expand with an additional eight inputs and outputs over ADAT opens up even more possibilities for professional setups.

However, it's essential to consider some drawbacks as well. The 18i20 is somewhat bulky and weighs around 4.67 pounds, which might be less ideal for those needing portability for mobile recording sessions. Also, while it is compatible with most audio recording software, users must ensure their specific setup meets any technical requirements. Finally, being a USB interface, relying on a computer for operation means it's not as flexible as some standalone devices.

If you're looking for a robust audio interface that excels in sound quality and expandability, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is a strong contender, particularly suited for home studios and professional environments alike.

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is a versatile and robust choice for multitrack recording, music production, and podcasting. It boasts an impressive set of 18 inputs and 20 outputs, including eight high-quality mic preamps, Hi-Z inputs, line inputs, ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI I/O, and Word Clock. This extensive connectivity makes it suitable for various recording needs and setups.

The audio quality is remarkable, thanks to its 24-bit/192kHz converters and 122dB dynamic range, ensuring detailed and high-fidelity recordings. Additionally, the Air modes add a professional touch by replicating the sound character of classic studio consoles, enhancing the presence and harmonic drive for vocals and instruments. The Auto Gain and Clip Safe features provide a smoother workflow by automatically setting optimal levels and preventing clipping, respectively.

In terms of portability, the unit is somewhat bulky with dimensions of 17.37 x 10.21 x 1.83 inches and a weight of 8.04 pounds, which may not be ideal for on-the-go use. However, it is built with durable aluminum material, ensuring longevity. Powering via USB-C, it is compatible with Mac OS, Windows OS, and iOS, making it flexible across different platforms. Included software packages like Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, FL Studio Producer Edition, and Hitmaker Expansion offer comprehensive tools for recording, editing, and mastering. This interface is best suited for users looking for a high-quality, feature-rich device for intensive studio work rather than casual, portable recording sessions.